Taiwanese security sources reported on Friday, November 13, that China had conducted extensive, unannounced military exercises around Taiwan and in the western Pacific earlier in the month.

The operations reportedly involved more than 100 naval and coast guard vessels at one stage.

Reuters quoted a Taiwanese official as saying the exercises included simulated attacks on various targets.

The activities came ahead of an anticipated meeting between the US and Chinese presidents and Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) discussions.

Beijing described its aircraft carrier operations as routine exercises not directed against any particular country.